Machiavellian Psychology

Theory and techniques of dark psychology, manipulation and influence

De: Giovanni Barone

Narrado por: Virtual Voice

The most simple definition of manipulation might be this one: manipulating is handling people at will to achieve our goals. The manipulator is an artist of language and appearance; their words and their actions are apparently true, honest and generous, but their intentions are others and they remain hidden. The victim debates between reality and the fiction that their manipulator has created for them. Learning the different modus operandi that the manipulator uses to control their victims, will protect you so you don't fall into the hands of these kinds of individuals again. Do you intend to use these techniques yourself? That's up to you to decide, since knowledge is power.
In this interesting and powerful book, the psychologist Giovanni Barone introduces us to the fascinating world of dark psychology and manipulation, useful for those who want to defend from it, as much as for those -who are more machiavellian- who want take advantage of its principles.
You'll learn several forms of psychological manipulation, from the most noble to the most perverse.

Some of the subjects being discussed are:

What is manipulation? What does it mean to manipulate?
How is a manipulative person? What are the common traits of the manipulated person?
How can we know if we're being manipulated?
Persuasion psychology.
The importance of the gaze.
How to plant an idea on people's minds.
How to raise doubts.
How to change the subject or direction of the conversation.
The DTR trick to influence.
Use of "composed suggestions"
Different machiavellian ways of manipulating as: evasion, projection, gaslighting, isolation, shaming, defame, intimidation, causing guilt...
And many more!

Good summary

Good overview of strategy and techniques with some good examples. Very good book for reflection

Simple terms definitions

A good starter or introduction to the topic, albeit being simplistic. Will continue to research on topics covered at a later stage. This book helps me at least begin to identify or justify manipulators in my personal life, outside world, corporations, politics and social construct. I believe everyone has the capability of becoming or even unconsciously being a manipulator. Its useful learning how to counter their cold and calculated manner not covered in this book.

Average or below average

I would say is a bit average below average to some extent. It’s not that insightful or mind opening